Oakland Announces New Partnership with LGBTQ Community Center
Published on May 04, 2026
Oakland, CA – The City of Oakland’s Human Services Department has awarded a new two-year, $1.4 million contract to the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center to administer Short-Term Rent, Mortgage, and Utility (STRMU) assistance.
STRMU, which is a part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Housing Opportunities for Persons Living With AIDS (HOPWA) program, provides time-limited financial assistance designed to help eligible individuals maintain stable housing, avoid eviction, and preserve access to essential utilities.
By contracting with the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center, an established and community-rooted organization that has long served LGBTQ+ residents, people living with HIV, and other vulnerable populations, the City aims to expand access to culturally competent and affirming housing support services.
“As Founder of the bipartisan HIV/AIDS Caucus in Congress, I worked to expand HIV services and ensure every member of the LGBTQ community has access to the care and support they deserve. I’m proud to continue that work as Mayor, alongside the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center, a trusted resource for our community,” said Mayor Barbara Lee. “This partnership reflects our commitment to preventing homelessness before it starts. Through the Short-Term Rent, Mortgage, and Utility program, we are helping Oaklanders stay housed, stable, and supported. I’m grateful to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for their partnership as we deliver real, community centered solutions for the people of Oakland.”
“Preventing homelessness means providing timely, practical support that meets people where they are. This partnership expands access to STRMU assistance, helping Oakland residents living with HIV stay safely housed, and connected to affirming wraparound services that support long-term stability. This is the kind of support that helps communities thrive, and I’m grateful to the staff and community partners whose hard work made the incredible accomplishment possible,” said Interim Human Services Director, Lea Lakes.
“The Oakland LGBTQ Community Center is an established and expanding organization that has long served many of Oakland’s most vulnerable populations,” said Joe Hawkins, Oakland LGBTQ Community Center's Executive Director. "At a time when housing costs and economic pressures continue to rise, expanded access to short-term rent, mortgage, and utility assistance is key. Housing is healthcare and STRMU assistance often prevents a temporary personal crisis from escalating into homelessness.”
Under the new contract, the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center will manage intake, eligibility screening, housing navigation, and distribution of STRMU funds. The Center will also connect participants with wraparound services including mental health support, benefits navigation, and long-term housing planning.
The City of Oakland remains committed to ensuring that every resident, especially those most impacted by housing insecurity, has access to the resources needed to remain safely housed. The Oakland LGBTQ Community Center has a strong record of serving the community with dignity and care, and the City looks forward to working with them to deliver this essential program.
The Oakland LGBTQ Community Center is now accepting applications for STRMU assistance. Low-income Oakland residents living with HIV/AIDS who are experiencing short-term financial hardship may be eligible for assistance.
Residents seeking more information about STRMU eligibility or services can contact the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center at 510-882-2286 or visit www.oaklandlgbtqcenter.org.
About Oakland’s Department of Human Services
The Human Services Department (HSD) advances the health, education, and well-being of Oakland families and adults by delivering free services and strengthening community capacity through grassroots leadership and civic engagement.
About the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center
The Oakland LGBTQ+ Community Center is committed to supporting and enhancing the well-being of LGBTQ individuals, their families and allies. Founded in 2017, the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center provides health, wellness, housing, and social support services to thousands of residents each year.
###